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May is one of the best months to explore Karnataka, a state that boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from lush green coffee plantations and misty hills to historic ruins and serene beaches. The weather remains relatively pleasant, especially in the hill stations and coastal areas, making it perfect for a memorable getaway. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, Karnataka has something to offer for every kind of traveller. Here are 10 must-visit places in Karnataka this May.
10 Places To Visit In Karnataka During May
Here are 10 places to visit in Karnataka during May.
1. Coorg
Photo: Demure Storyteller / Unsplash
Coorg is a well-known hill station in Karnataka, often called the “Scotland of India” because of its lush landscapes and rolling hills. This place is perfect for nature lovers who want to escape the heat and enjoy the cool, refreshing weather. Coorg is famous for its sprawling coffee plantations, beautiful waterfalls, and rich wildlife. One of the key attractions in Coorg is Abbey Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. You can also visit Raja’s Seat, a beautiful garden offering panoramic views of the valleys. If you enjoy trekking,
Location: Kodagu District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Abbey Falls
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction
2. Hampi
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best places to visit in May in Karnataka if you’re interested in history and architecture. The ancient city of Hampi is filled with magnificent temples, ruins, and monuments that date back to the Vijayanagara Empire. Some must-visit spots in Hampi include the Vittala Temple Complex, which features intricate stone carvings and the famous stone chariot, and the Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Hampi’s landscape is also unique, with massive boulders and rocky hills offering great spots for photography and exploration.
Location: Vijayanagara District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Vittala Temple
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Hospet Junction
3. Chikmagalur
Known for its coffee plantations and peaceful surroundings, Chikmagalur is one of the most relaxing places to visit in May in Karnataka. The cool climate in May makes it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the summer heat. One of the highlights of Chikmagalur is Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka. Trekking enthusiasts will love climbing this peak, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. If you enjoy wildlife, you can visit the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and explore its rich flora and fauna.
Location: Chikmagalur District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Mullayanagiri
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kadur Junction
4. Shivanasamudra Falls
Photo: Guptarohit994 / Wikimedia Commons
Shivanasamudra Falls is one of the most scenic places to visit in May in Karnataka. Located on the banks of the Kaveri River, these stunning twin waterfalls – Gaganachukki and Bharachukki – are a sight to behold. Surrounded by lush green forests, the falls are an excellent spot for nature lovers and photographers. The best time to visit Shivanasamudra Falls is during May, when the weather is pleasant, and the waterfalls flow beautifully due to pre-monsoon showers.
Location: Mandya District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Gaganachukki Waterfalls
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Bangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Maddur Railway Station
5. Nagarhole National Park
Photo: Vivek K Kaushik / Unsplash
For wildlife enthusiasts, Nagarhole National Park is one of the top places to visit in May in Karnataka. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and various species of birds. A safari through the dense forests of Nagarhole gives you the chance to experience Karnataka’s rich biodiversity up close. May is an ideal time to visit the park as the weather remains dry, increasing your chances of spotting wildlife. Don’t forget to carry your camera to capture the wildlife in action.
Location: Kodagu and Mysore Districts, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Wildlife Safari
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction
6. Kemmangundi
Photo: Vijay Sawant / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway amidst nature, Kemmangundi is one of the best places to visit in May in Karnataka. This hill station, in the Chikmagalur district, offers stunning views of the Western Ghats and lush green landscapes. The pleasant weather in May makes Kemmangundi perfect for outdoor activities such as trekking and nature walks. The highlight of Kemmangundi is Hebbe Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense forests. You can also explore the well-maintained gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the hills.
Location: Chikmagalur District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Hebbe Falls
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tarikere Railway Station
7. Gokarna
For those seeking a beach holiday, Gokarna is one of the best places to visit in May in Karnataka. Known for its peaceful and pristine beaches, Gokarna offers a laid-back vibe, perfect for relaxation. The most popular beaches in Gokarna are Om Beach and Kudle Beach. You can enjoy water sports, yoga by the beach, or simply relax and watch the stunning sunsets. Gokarna is also a spiritual hub with the famous Mahabaleshwar Temple, attracting pilgrims from across the country. The pleasant weather in May makes Gokarna a great place for beach activities and exploration.
Location: Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Om Beach
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Gokarna Road Railway Station
8. Sakleshpur
Sakleshpur is a small, scenic hill station known for its lush green coffee plantations and rolling hills. It is one of the best places to visit in May in Karnataka if you are looking for a quiet escape from nature. A popular attraction in Sakleshpur is the Manjarabad Fort, a star-shaped fort offering stunning views of the Western Ghats. You can also go trekking through the scenic trails or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the coffee estates. Sakleshpur’s cool climate in May makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.
Location: Hassan District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Manjarabad Fort
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Sakleshpur Railway Station
9. Maravanthe
Photo: Aditya Bharighat / Unsplash
Maravanthe is a unique destination where the Arabian Sea and the Souparnika River run parallel to each other, separated by a narrow stretch of land. This creates a picturesque setting that is perfect for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. It is one of the most serene places to visit in May in Karnataka. At Maravanthe, you can relax on the beach, enjoy a boat ride along the river, or simply take in the beautiful surroundings. The weather in May is ideal for outdoor activities and beach relaxation.
Location: Udupi District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Maravanthe Beach
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kundapura Railway Station
10. Agumbe
Photo: Ganesh Partheeban / Unsplash
Agumbe, often referred to as the “Cherrapunji of South India,” is known for its dense rainforests and stunning sunsets. It is one of the best places to visit in May in Karnataka for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Agumbe is famous for its beautiful sunset point, which offers breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Arabian Sea. You can also explore the nearby waterfalls, such as Barkana Falls and Onake Abbi Falls, and experience the rich flora and fauna of the Western Ghats.
Location: Shivamogga District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Sunset Point
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Udupi Railway Station
Karnataka is a diverse state that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, these places to visit in May in Karnataka will provide a memorable experience. From the cool hills of Coorg and Chikmagalur to the historical wonders of Hampi and the serene beaches of Gokarna, Karnataka is a traveller’s paradise. Book a vacation with TripXL today.
Cover Photo: Arif Khan / Unsplash
